Giftun Islands

A vast majority of visitors to the Giftun Islands arrive as part of an organized day trip from Hurghada on Egypt’s mainland. Join a full-day excursion to snorkel above the bright coral reefs, relax and swim at a white sand beach, and do some dolphin watching on the way to and from the islands. Most day trips include lunch and any necessary snorkel equipment. Certified scuba divers can book a guided dive trip for a closer look at coral gardens, sea turtles, skates, and other marine life.

If hiring a boat to travel independently, consider visiting Giftun Kebir, where you’ll find a resort with some facilities needed for a day by the sea.

• The Giftun Islands are a must-visit for snorkelers, scuba divers, and beach lovers.

• Don’t forget to bring sun protection, a change of clothes, and anything else you’d want for a day at the beach.

• Day trips to the islands typically last six to eight hours, depending on the activities included.

The Giftun Islands are located in the Red Sea, a 45-minute sail by day cruise from Hurghada. The easiest way to get there is by organized tour.

Warm weather throughout the year means there isn’t really a bad time to visit the Giftun Islands. Particularly hot and humid temperatures in July and August make time spent in the water even more appealing.

The Giftun Islands comprise two separate islands, the larger Giftun Kebir (“Big” Giftun) and the smaller Giftun Sughayer (“Little” Giftun). Most tours to the islands visit the former. The area popularly known as Paradise Island is, in fact, part of Giftun Kebir, situated on its southern coast.

The Giftun Islands are two islands in the Red Sea, around 45 minutes by boat from the coast of Hurghada in Egypt. The islands—Giftun Kebir and Giftun Sughayer—sit within a marine reserve, which ensures the protection of the abundant coral and marine life.

The most hassle-free route to the Giftun Islands is to book an excursion from Hurghada. Most visitors join boat day trips, which include at least a couple of hours on the islands, along with stops to swim and snorkel. Private boat charters are also available.

Activities in the Giftun Island are mainly based around its pristine beaches. The islands are renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving, with an abundance of colorful marine life all around. Water sports, such as banana boat rides, are also popular.

The water around the Giftun Islands is rich with sea life and biodiversity. Common sights for snorkelers and scuba divers include parrotfish, butterflyfish, and clownfish. Dolphins are often spotted in the area, along with stingrays, barracuda, and turtles.

Many tour operators will provide you with a list of what to bring, depending on the scheduled activities. Typical beach essentials are advisable, such as sunscreen, hats, swimwear, towels, and water. A light umbrella can be a good idea if you prefer some shade on the beach.

The Giftun Islands are part of a protected marine area and overnight tourism stays aren’t permitted. If you want to stay as close to the islands as possible, consider hotels around Hurghada center or El Gouna, which both offer easy access to the port.